Keywords remain a central part of every SEO strategy. Even though it is sometimes claimed that Google no longer values keywords, numerous alternative search engines show that proper keyword usage is still relevant. Thoughtful selection, placement, and variation of keywords determines your website’s visibility and success.
Why Keywords Are Still Important
Keywords help search engines understand your website’s content. They indicate what the page is about and ensure your content appears for relevant queries. Even though Google uses complex algorithms like semantic search and NLP, keywords remain an important signal—not only for Google but also for Bing, DuckDuckGo, Ecosia, and other search engines. A targeted keyword strategy supports discoverability and helps attract the right visitors to your site. Without keywords, your content risks being lost in search rankings.
Where to Find the Right Keywords
There are many tools for keyword research that provide different data. Google Keyword Planner is the classic tool for keyword volume and competition analysis. Ubersuggest provides keyword suggestions, SEO difficulty, and content ideas. Ahrefs allows in-depth analysis of keywords, backlinks, and competitors. SEMrush supports professional keyword strategies and content optimization. It is important that keywords are used not just for search engines, but always make sense for readers. User-friendly content increases engagement, dwell time, and conversions—and is rewarded by search engines simultaneously.
Best Places to Place Keywords
- Title tag and meta description – directly influence click-through rate in search results.
- Headings (H1, H2, H3) – structure the text and signal importance.
- Introductory paragraphs and body text – natural integration into reading flow is crucial.
- Alt texts for images – improve SEO and accessibility.
- URL structure and internal links – enhance keyword relevance and user navigation.
Excessive keyword density should be avoided. Instead, aim for a natural usage that maintains readability and informational value while supporting SEO.
Tips for Proper Keyword Use
- Find keywords with both search volume and relevance for your audience.
- Include synonyms and related terms (LSI keywords) to make the text more natural.
- Place keywords strategically in key areas without overstuffing.
- Always write for the visitor, not only for search engines.
- Regularly review your content and optimize keywords to keep up with trends.
What Are LSI Keywords?
LSI Keywords (Latent Semantic Indexing) are terms and synonyms closely related to your main keyword. They help search engines better understand the context of your content and prevent the text from sounding unnatural due to too many repetitions. Example: If your main keyword is “Web Design,” LSI keywords could include “UX Design”, “Responsive Design”, “User Interface”, or “Website Optimization”. Using LSI keywords makes your text more readable and valuable—while also supporting SEO and improving visibility in search results.
Conclusion
SEO-relevant keywords remain an essential tool for successful websites. They help search engines categorize content while ensuring the right visitors find your site. With proper research, strategic placement, and a focus on user-friendliness, you optimize both discoverability and reader satisfaction. Using keywords consciously and focusing on quality lays the foundation for sustainable SEO success.
Image: freepik.com